The most dedicated companies do not begin their roads to success with the pursuit of wealth. Passion is the best fuel that nourishes people and drives them to share their aspirations with the world. Would you trust a car dealer who doesn’t know how to drive? A diving equipment seller who has never descended into the blue depths of the sea? The same goes for hunting, how can a hardened city dweller know what apparel is best for the big game or waterfowl hunt?
Drake’s co-founder Tate Wood could tell you everything about the duck hunt, for he has been enjoying it for more than thirty years. The love for hunting was nurtured in him by his father and is now part of everything Drake Waterfowl Systems produce. Drake’s specialists know what a hunter requires because they are hunters themselves. It’s not only about what you hunt, how you do it is equally important. And with Drake apparel, the question of quality hunting gear can be considered closed.
Your hunting apparel doesn’t serve only aesthetic purposes. To be more precise, aesthetics is by no means its primary function. Your gear is supposed to be your helper in pursuit of the prey: keep you warm, camouflaged, or dry, depending on what you are doing. For waterfowl hunting, all of those features matter. Wading in flooded areas comes with decreased mobility, cold, and a lot of water. The impact of those factors needs to be at least mitigated, if not eliminated. Drake specializes in waterfowl and not-typical big game hunting, so they are well aware of how to help the hunter resist the elements.
Drake Jackets
Those are the first component of the complete hunter suit. Drake Guardian Elite waterfowl jackets come in three styles depending on the manner of hunting.
The Flooded Timber series is designed for those wading the flooded areas. No dogs, no boats, no decoys - only a hunter, a game call, and trees around. These jackets are patterned to match tree bark color and made using waterproof, durable, and breathable fabric. Insulation is another feature that Flooded Timber jackets can boast.
The Layout Blind series suits those who prefer hunting with their back to earth. As opposed to the seemingly equipmentless timber hunting, this type is focused on shooting from layout blinds, that provide concealment from unsuspecting geese and ducks. These jackets are designed to make shooting from a blind more comfortable while preserving all the features that keep the hunter warm and dry.
The Boat & Blind series is handy for those shooting from boats and blinds installed on them. It is the last variety of waterfowl hunting, and it is only natural for Drake to create a line of jackets fit for this type as well. They come with the same features that all Drake Waterfowl jackets have: waterproofness, breathability, and a moderate degree of insulation.
The second component that makes the suit complete. They cover most of your body and thus should be as waterproof as possible. Drake Waterfowl waders ensure the maximum top-to-bottom protection one can find in waders. Packed with plenty of features for additional comfort, these waders are a must for every waterfowl hunter.
Drake Hoodies
Suitable for both everyday use and field hunting, Drake Waterfowl hoodies come in a variety of materials: cotton, fleece, and polyester. These hoodies are not deprived of heat retention and moisture management capabilities, which makes them extremely versatile.
Drake Shirts
Everyone makes shirts, why should Drake be any different? Some Drake Waterfowl shirts are endowed with either moisture-wicking or complete waterproof properties, quite a pleasant addition for everyday wear. Drake has long sleeve and short sleeve shirts in a variety of patterns and colors.
Drake Hats
What can show your affiliation more expressively than a cap with the brand’s logo on it? The whole set of your favorite brand’s apparel. But a cap is a good beginning. Drake Waterfowl hats are not restricted to caps only, you can also find Jones hats and bonnie hats.
Here, on Gritr Outdoors, we have a wide selection of Drake hunting apparel. If waterfowl is your passion, you will surely find something useful on this page.
FAQ
What is the difference between Drake EST, MST, and LST gear?
Drake's gear line is divided into three seasonal categories. EST (Early Season Technology) is designed for warm, early-season hunts, using lightweight 3-layer breathable fabrics and 1,000g Thinsulate boot insulation. MST (Mid Season Technology) is built for unpredictable autumn weather, featuring 3.5mm neoprene or medium-weight insulation with 800g Thinsulate boots. LST (Late Season Technology) is engineered for freezing late-winter conditions, with heavy 5mm neoprene, fleece linings, and 1,600g Thinsulate boot insulation.
What is Drake Eqwader waders technology?
Drake's Eqwader is a hybrid wading system designed for waterfowl hunters. The name reflects how the garment separates into two distinct areas – just like the equator divides the earth. The Eqwader system comes in three categories, each designed for different seasons and temperatures: EST for temperatures of 60°F and above; MST for temperatures between 30°F and 60°F; LST for the coldest conditions, from 0°F to 30°F. All three models share the same fit, pocket design, and features and the key differences lie in the fabric and boot insulation. The breathable EST model is the most versatile, as it allows hunters to adjust their warmth through layering. The neoprene MST and LST models offer greater insulation for colder conditions.
How do I choose the right size for Drake waders?
Measure your chest, waist, and inseam while wearing the layers you plan to use in the field. If you have a broader build or prefer a looser fit, "Stout" sizing is available to prevent stiffness and underarm restriction.
How should I clean and maintain my Drake waterproof apparel?
Machine wash on a cold, gentle cycle using a specialized technical fabric cleaner. Never use bleach or fabric softeners, as they break down waterproof membranes. Air dry completely, do not use a hot commercial dryer.
What are Drake's modular jacket layering systems?
Drake shells feature interior zippers that lock compatible insulation layers directly into the jacket, commonly referred to as 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 systems. Heavier jackets include removable inner jackets that zip out quickly when temperatures rise mid-day. When layering, match pieces within the same line family (e.g., Guardian Elite Pro) to ensure the zippers, neck snaps, and wrist cuffs align correctly.
